This Blink-and-You’ll-Miss-It Town in New Jersey Is so Worth Exploring

Princeton is one of my favorite small towns in New Jersey for a good reason: it's one of the best shopping and dining hubs in the entire state, and it is home to a world-famous university. But in looking forward to getting to my destination, I often passed right by one of New Jersey's best small towns: Kingston.

Kingston, New Jersey, located right outside the borders of Princeton, is a tiny town of under 1,600 people that often evades people's attention—you drive right through on the main road to Princeton, and you'll notice a quaint small town with a nice look, but little to grab your attention immediately. But this town is hiding a gorgeous historic district, a delicious farmers' market, and a spinoff of one of the area's most popular restaurants. Come with us and discover why you should stop in Kingston the next time you drive to Princeton!

Kingston is home to a unique historic district, containing 16 historic buildings, including the famous Kingston Mill, as well as two contributing structures, including one of the oldest bridges in the United States, dating back to 1798.

The Kingston area is also home to the Pennsylvania Dutch Farmers Market, which is technically within Princeton's borders but is far closer to Kingston than downtown Princeton when you travel. Many of the products in this unique Amish market come directly from Lancaster, PA—including some of the best shoofly pie around. There is also an extensive hot bar with food like ribs and fried chicken, making this an underrated and affordable spot for lunch. For more information, be sure to check out the Pennyslvania Dutch Farmers Market online.

Looking for a sit-down restaurant? Mercato Ristorante at Gennaro's comes highly recommended, famous for its gourmet dishes and warm, inviting ambiance. There's also an Italian market inside if you're ordering something to-go.

Have you ever stopped in Kingston, New Jersey, before? You can find out more about Kingston on the Kingston Historical Society website, and you can find out more details about the Pennsylvania Dutch Farmers Market and PJ's Pancake House on their official website. When you do head into Princeton, we highly recommend The Peacock Inn—it's one of a couple of historic hotels in the Princeton area, and it's gorgeous. Learn more about all the things you can explore in Princeton, New Jersey.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.